To ask the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that a motor lorry, the property of Mr. Thomas Ward, of Society Street, Ballinasloe, was commandeered by National troops, and held by them for over three months; whether he has received a claim from Mr. Ward for compensation for loss of business on account of the seizure of his lorry, and if he can say when the claim will be paid.
[ WRITTEN ANSWERS. ] - COMMANDEERED MOTORS. (CLAIMS FOR COMPENSATION.)
I am aware that a Ford ton truck was held by our troops for about three months. A claim for compensation has been received, and is being considered with a view of early payment.
To ask the Minister for Defence if he is aware that a Ford motor car was commandeered by Free State troops last autumn from Mr. Michael Flanagan, River Street, Ballinasloe, that after three months it was returned to him in a very damaged condition; that several applications have since been made by Mr. Flanagan for compensation for loss of his car and for cost of repairs, but that he has yet received no payment of any kind from the military authorities, and will he see that this claim receives immediate attention.
I am aware that a Ford motor car was held by our troops for about three months last autumn. Mr. Flanagan's claims are receiving attention.